Centre for Civic Education (CCE) strongly condemns the attack on Ana Raičković, journalist of Pobjeda, as well as on her family members and property. We express deep concern over the brutality of the perpetrator in this case, which exacerbates the chronic vulnerability of journalists in Montenegro. Institutions must demonstrate that they understand the gravity of this problem and respond decisively to deter those who believe they can use violence against journalists when dissatisfied with their reporting.
The CCE recalls that last night, according to media reports, businessman Zoran Bećirović, along with his bodyguard and son, allegedly verbally and physically assaulted journalist Raičković and her son, and also damaged her vehicle.
Such incidents and similar attacks on journalists are unmistakable attempts to curtail their work and reporting on matters of public interest. Moreover, they reinforce an atmosphere of insecurity among media professionals in Montenegro, who frequently face various forms of pressure as well as numerous other challenges in their work.
Including this case involving journalist Raičković, the CCE recorded 14 verbal and physical attacks on journalists during 2024 – a concerningly high number in the Montenegrin context.
The CCE urges the prosecution and judiciary to ensure a thorough investigation and efficient legal action in this case, ensuring that the perpetrators are held accountable. Only through such an approach can the state demonstrate its commitment to protecting the media and journalists, alongside enforcing a zero-tolerance policy towards attacks on them and their property.
The CCE also emphasizes the need to establish mechanisms that will contribute to the preventing of attacks on journalists and raise public awareness of the importance of free and independent journalism. Impunity for attacks on journalists, their personal property, and media assets can only encourage perpetrators, whether in political, business, criminal, or other spheres. This makes journalists desirable targets and seriously undermines the safety of media workers. Ultimately, this puts Montenegro at risk of declining media freedoms, contrary to its aspirations for democratic development and adherence to European standards.
The CCE will continue advocating for the establishment of a functional system for the protection of journalists and the media, where every form of threat, violence, or intimidation is decisively prosecuted. is essential for safeguarding the right to media freedom, a cornerstone of any democratic society.
Nikola Obradović, programme associate